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Thailand runs a large trade surplus with the United States and
Trump last month ordered a study of the causes of U.S. trade
deficits.
"This is important and could create uncertainty in trade and
investment although the details are still unclear," Jane
Namchaisiri, chairman of a joint panel of the Federation of Thai
Industries, the Thai Bankers' Association and the Thai Chamber
of Commerce, told a briefing.
Thai exports, including food, electronics, automobiles and
parts, could be affected by U.S. anti-dumping and anti-subsidy
duties, he said.
Other goods may also feel the pinch if Thailand's trade
partners, such as China and Japan, face U.S. trade measures,
Jane said.
Exports are worth about two thirds of Thailand's economy. The
country is a regional production and export base for the world's
top carmakers and is the world's number-two maker of hard
drives.
Thailand had a trade surplus of about $18 billion with the
United States last year, putting it 11th globally - well behind
China's $347 billion surplus or nearby Vietnam's $32 billion.
But the United States is Thailand's second-largest export market
this year after China at a time the junta is struggling to lift
growth in Southeast Asia's second's largest economy, which has
lagged regional peers.
The junta should invite U.S. representatives to come examine
Thai products, rather than waiting for them to ask, Jane said.
Assistant central bank governor Jaturong Jantarangs said on
Friday there was time for negotiation before there was any
impact on Thai exports to the United States.
A strong baht <THB=TH> was also a worry, Jane said, with the
currency becoming the best performer in Southeast Asia this year
with a 3.7 percent rise against the dollar.
(Reporting by Kitiphong Thaichareon; Writing by Orathai Sriring;
Editing by Nick Macfie)
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